The Unfortunate Traveller

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Transcript of The Unfortunate Traveller

Autobiographical Questions Scholars disagree on the exact number of characteristics that define a picaresque novel, though are around 7 "core" qualities of a picaresque novel. All or some of these characteristics can be used based on the desire of the author. Picaro is defined as a rouge or adventurer - also known as picaroon. This is what the main character in a picaresque novel is called when that character is a boy or man. The Guide to Defining a Picaresque Novel A picaresque novel is generally written in the first person as an autobiographical account. 1. Earlier we mentioned the characteristic not having a plot in a picaresque novel. Do you think "The Unfortunate Traveller" has a plot? Why or why not?

2. Now that you know some of the factors that make up a picaresque novel, can you think of another example?

3. What is important about the conclusion of the novel? Does it fit it well with the description of a picaresque novel? Rachel Chamberlin & Emmy Cooper The Unfortunate Traveller by Thomas Nashe Social Class The main character in a picaresque novel is typically of low social class or character and they usually get by in life simply by their wits and barely hold a job Plot There is usually no plot in a picaresque novel. The novel is composed of a series of loosely connected events or adventures. Character Development Little to no character development in the main character is present in a picaresque novel. Circumstances my change throughout the novel, but it rarely results in a change of heart in the main character - once a picaro always a picaro. Language The story is told with a plainness of language and makes use of everyday terms. Satire Satire can be a prominent element in picaresque novels. Satire is used to highlight shortcomings and holds them up to ridicule the idea of shaming people or society into improvement. It is meant to be funny, but is often social criticism that uses wit as a weapon Character Behavior The picaro's behavior amounts to him doing what he pleases and ignoring the rules. His behavior often stops just short of the criminal. What is a picaresque novel?

The picaresque novel is a type of novel that originated in 16th century Spain. It is a precursor to the modern novel. In the picaresque novel, a picaro - a kind of rogue wanderer - tells about his various exploits and adventures. Thomas Nashe was born in 1567, and educated at St John's College, Cambridge. After graduating in 1586, he became one of the "University Wits", a circle of writers who came to London in the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, and wrote for the stage and the press. Nashe died in 1601 at the age of 34 from unknown causes that range from the plague to food poisoning to a stroke.

"The Unfortunate Traveller" is thought to be the first picaresque novel written in English. Who is Thomas Nashe? Works Consulted